“And the peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].”
Philippians 4:7 AMP
Grace Perspective:
Peace in this passage means “the tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and content with its earthly lot.” [i] Once we receive the grace of salvation, we have peace with God. This is not a fleeting peace, but a secure one, for we don’t have to fear punishment for our sins because Christ Jesus paid the price to redeem us, securing a “peace treaty” that can never be broken.
This gracious peace secures our hearts and minds, bringing calm when our thoughts are chaotic and disordered. It’s a deep sense of trust in God, a knowing that even when times are hard, God is in control. A peace that calms a racing heart and helps us focus our thoughts on who Christ is. It helps us hold fast to the truth that we are fully accepted and deeply loved by Him, and nothing can separate us from His goodness.
A Touch of Grace:
What does peace with God mean?
How can this truth help calm your heart and mind?
Grace Application:
Happy New Year! Peace – wouldn’t it be wonderful if the world was at peace and everyone got along with everyone else? Well, one day, this will be true (once Jesus returns), but until then, how can we have peaceful hearts in a world that is anything but peaceful? And a peace that passes all understanding…who wouldn’t like this kind of peace?! Peace isn’t the absence of trials but serenity so deep that our hearts are convinced that God is good and in control of everything, especially when life is hard.
We don’t see much of peace in the world around us. Strife, disunity, and disorder are everywhere. Fear stalks us around every corner, whispering that sickness, financial strain, failed relationships, and a host of other horrors are just a step away. But God. The Lord doesn’t want us to live in a constant state of anxiety. Do we have troubles? Jesus warned us,
“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation anddistress and suffering, but be courageous
[be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]
(John 16:33 AMP)
Trouble will come our way; it just will. However, we have a choice in how it will affect us. We can fight against problems or lean into them and trust the Lord to give us the strength to endure. If we choose to fight against troubles, the pain is often prolonged, and anxiety escalates, consuming our minds and hearts with the “what ifs” and other thoughts that take our focus off Christ.
However, when we walk closely with Christ through the storms, we find peace as He shelters us with the truth in Scripture. Jesus tells us,
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27 ESV)
As we start a new year that God has planned that will include joys and sorrows, may the gracious fruit of peace guard your hearts and minds with the confidence that Christ Jesus has overcome the world and you have perfect peace in Him.
In His Grace – Dawn
Prayer:
Gracious Father, I come to You In the precious name of Jesus Christ, my Savior, thankful for the peace that passes all understanding. Please guard my mind with Your truth, especially when trouble comes. Remind me that You have given Your peace to me, and in You, my salvation is secure. May the gracious gift of peace point others toward You. Amen
**Today, as you read this, I pray each of you will know you are in Christ Jesus. If you have any doubts, please seek God so your doubt is erased. Today is a good day to be assured of Salvation in Christ Jesus. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at graceisdawning@gmail.com**
[i] https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1515/esv/mgnt/0-1/